On Prototypes

Seth Godin makes an interesting point in “The problem with prototypes”, when he says “your prototype has to be better than the finished product is going to be.” This is something we come across quite often in our work, when we send in proposals and do a “quick” prototype of the final solution. And we seem to make exactly the same assumptions that Seth suggests we should not. “This is just the concept, so a quick scribble is enough.” “Let’s do some rough designs; we can refine them later.” May be that’s not such a smart idea after all. A good idea badly represented may not be too different from a bad idea.

Of course, it’s tempting to argue that one may not have the time and resources to do a “better than final” prototype. But then, may be that’s a question of scope. May be we should pick up a smaller unit of learning and prototype it better.

As I write this, it strikes me that in advertising, the layouts and designs we make for business pitches are probably far superior to what finally comes out in the media.

Tailpiece: Quite often, the advertisements for a product are better than the product itself; so, if we go by Seth’s views, is the advertisement a prototype for the real product?

(Geetha Krishnan heads Instructional Design at Tata Interactive Systems)

Comments

[Shilpa Sharma]

I could really relate to this piece as its such a common experience in the field of Design. A great idea is not well received simply because it doesnt really come across as "that great". I have learnt this the hard way at work. It used to really surprise me earlier and I used to wonder why my boss cant see the potential in this idea and has just not paid enough attention to it. I think when one visualizes a great idea in his/her head,its important to translate into a tangible for others to relate to it.Otherwise it just remains a great idea in one's head!!!Communication specially visual communication is very crucial thus...story telling through visuals is so important.